Anklets: The Timeless Jewelry That Dances With Every Step
6 min reading time
You may have thought and anklet was just a piece of jewelry, but it is something more. This piece of jewelry has a rich history. Check out what is the season's latest must have accessory- Sundara Joon
There's something undeniably enchanting about jewelry that moves with you—a delicate chain that catches the light as you walk, tiny charms that whisper with each step, or a bold statement piece that draws the eye to the graceful curve of your ankle. Anklets possess a unique magic in the jewelry world, combining ancient symbolism with modern style to create accessories that are both deeply personal and beautifully expressive.
What Exactly Are Anklets?
An anklet, also known as an ankle bracelet, ankle chain, or by its traditional Indian name "payal," is a piece of jewelry worn around the ankle. These delicate accessories typically consist of a chain, cord, or band that encircles the ankle, often adorned with charms, beads, gemstones, or other decorative elements.
Unlike other jewelry pieces that might be hidden under clothing, anklets are meant to be seen—peeking out from beneath a hemline, complementing bare feet in sandals, or adding sparkle to beach attire. They range from whisper-thin chains that barely catch the light to bold, statement pieces that command attention with every movement. The beauty of anklets lies in their versatility. They can be elegant and refined, bohemian and free-spirited, or modern and minimalist.
A Journey Through Time: The Ancient History of Anklets
The story of anklets stretches back over 8,000 years, making them among humanity's oldest forms of personal adornment. Archaeological evidence from ancient Sumerian sites reveals that ankles were symbols of wealth, status, and spiritual protection.
Ancient Egypt: Divine Adornment
In ancient Egypt, anklets held profound significance that went far beyond mere decoration. Egyptian women of all social classes wore anklets, but the materials revealed their place in society. Wealthy women adorned themselves with gold anklets embedded with precious stones, while common people wore anklets made from silver, copper, or leather.
These weren't just fashion statements—Egyptian anklets often incorporated protective symbols like the Eye of Horus, scarab beetles, or hieroglyphic inscriptions. The ancient Egyptians believed that anklets could ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the wearer.
India: Sacred Tradition and Musical Motion
Perhaps nowhere has the anklet tradition been more richly developed than in India, where these ornaments are known as "payal" or "nupura." Indian anklets were mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts dating back thousands of years, where they're described not just as jewelry but as instruments of expression and communication.
Traditional Indian anklets often featured small bells that created melodious sounds as women walked, a feature that served multiple purposes. The gentle tinkling announced a woman's approach, allowing for appropriate social interactions in traditional settings. More poetically, the sounds were believed to please the gods and create harmony in the household.
The materials and designs of Indian anklets conveyed important social information. Married women typically wore silver anklets, as gold touching the feet was considered inappropriate in Hindu tradition (the feet being closest to the earth and therefore less pure). The weight, design, and ornamentation of anklets could indicate a woman's marital status, regional origin, and family wealth.
Different regions of India developed distinct anklet styles. Rajasthani anklets might feature elaborate peacock motifs and colorful stones, while South Indian designs often incorporated temple bells and religious symbols. These regional variations created a rich tapestry of anklet traditions that continues to influence jewelry design today.
Ancient Greece and Rome: Status and Seduction
Greek and Roman women embraced anklets as symbols of both status and sensuality. Roman literature includes numerous references to ankle chains as accessories of refinement and allure. These civilizations often crafted anklets from gold and adorned them with pearls, gems, and intricate metalwork.
Interestingly Roman history, anklets also served practical purposes. Slave women were sometimes required to wear identifying anklets, while wealthy women wore ornate versions as displays of freedom and luxury. This duality highlights how the same piece of jewelry could carry vastly different meanings depending on its context and wearer.
Global Traditions: From Africa to the Americas
Anklet traditions developed independently across many cultures worldwide. In ancient Africa, ankle ornaments were crafted from materials ranging from precious metals to animal bones, shells, and carved wood. These pieces often held spiritual significance and were believed to connect the wearer to ancestral spirits or natural forces.
Native American cultures incorporated anklets into ceremonial dress, often featuring feathers, beads, and materials sacred to specific tribes. These anklets weren't just decorative—they were integral parts of spiritual and cultural expression, connecting the wearer to tribal traditions and beliefs.
The Modern Renaissance: Why Anklets Are More Popular Than Ever
After experiencing varying degrees of popularity throughout the 20th century, anklets have undergone a remarkable renaissance in recent decades. Several factors contribute to their current widespread appeal:
Fashion Flexibility and Personal Expression
Modern anklets offer unprecedented versatility. They complement virtually every style aesthetic, from boho-chic to minimalist modern, from beach casual to evening elegant. This adaptability allows women to express different facets of their personality through their ankle jewelry choices.
Style Considerations: Finding Your Personal Aesthetic
Anklets come in numerous styles, each offering different aesthetic appeals:
Chain Anklets: Classic and versatile, available in various chain styles from delicate cable chains to bold curb links. Consider the thickness and style of chain that best complements your personal style and other jewelry.
Charm Anklets: Feature dangling elements that add movement and personality. Choose charms that reflect your interests, beliefs, or aesthetic preferences.
Beaded Anklets: Incorporate various materials like gemstones, pearls, or glass beads. These offer excellent opportunities for color coordination and personal expression through stone choices.
Embracing the Anklet: A Personal Journey
Choosing to wear anklets is ultimately a personal decision that can reflect your style, cultural appreciation, or simply your desire to experiment with different forms of self-expression. Whether you're drawn to the delicate sparkle of a simple chain, the meaningful symbolism of cultural designs, or the playful movement of charm-adorned pieces, anklets offer a unique way to add beauty and personality to your overall look.
In a world where fashion trends come and go with dizzying speed, anklets represent something beautifully enduring—a form of adornment that has captivated humans for millennia and continues to evolve while maintaining its essential charm. Whether you're taking your first steps into ankle jewelry or adding to an established collection, remember that the best anklet is one that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and authentically yourself with every step you take.
The artist's we represent at Sundara Joon have some creative anklets for your wearing pleasure. They range from striking charms to colorful expressions with bold gemstones and tassels.